Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake
Highlighted under: Heavenly Dessert Creations
This moist and flavorful Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake combines the sweetness of apples with the subtle earthiness of zucchini, creating a delightful treat perfect for any coffee break.
This Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is a family favorite that brings together two classic ingredients in a delightful way. The combination of fresh apples and grated zucchini not only adds moisture but also contributes to the cake's wonderful texture. Perfect for brunch or as a sweet afternoon snack, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist texture with a delightful balance of sweetness
- Packed with nutritious fruits and veggies
- Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
This Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The natural sweetness of the apples perfectly complements the mild earthiness of the zucchini, creating a cake that is both delicious and unique. The incorporation of cinnamon adds a warm, inviting aroma, making it an ideal treat for cozy mornings or afternoon gatherings.
Each bite of this cake delivers a moist texture that melts in your mouth. The combination of grated zucchini and diced apples not only contributes to the cake's moisture but also ensures that you're getting a dose of nutrients with every slice. It's a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your sweet tooth while incorporating wholesome ingredients.
Versatile and Easy to Make
Whether you're baking for breakfast, a coffee break, or even a dessert, this Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake fits the bill perfectly. It’s simple to prepare, requiring just a few mixing bowls and a baking pan. The straightforward steps make it an excellent recipe for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike, ensuring success every time you make it.
You can also easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Swap out the walnuts for pecans or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version. Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to give the cake a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is baked and cooled, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or for enjoying throughout the week without the hassle of daily baking.
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, paired with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat. For an extra indulgence, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Each slice of this cake is not just a delicious dessert but a delightful experience.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix the ingredients well before pouring the batter into the prepared baking pan.
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then fold in the grated zucchini and diced apples until just combined.
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix the walnuts, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the topping.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake with a cup of coffee or tea!
Nutritional Benefits
Combining fruits and vegetables in baked goods not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutritional value. The zucchini in this cake provides fiber and essential vitamins, while apples contribute antioxidants and natural sweetness. Together, they create a deliciously moist cake that’s a step above traditional recipes.
This Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and skin health. By incorporating wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a treat that feels indulgent yet is still a smart choice for your diet.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This coffee cake is not just for casual snacking; it shines in various social settings. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a potluck, or looking for a thoughtful gift, this cake is sure to impress. Its unique flavor profile and moist texture make it a standout choice.
Moreover, it’s a great way to use up seasonal produce. If you have an abundance of zucchini or apples from your garden or local farmer’s market, this recipe is an ideal solution. You'll enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious dessert while minimizing food waste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, frozen zucchini can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the batter.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup like stevia or erythritol.
→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake
This moist and flavorful Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake combines the sweetness of apples with the subtle earthiness of zucchini, creating a delightful treat perfect for any coffee break.
Created by: Tom
Recipe Type: Heavenly Dessert Creations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then fold in the grated zucchini and diced apples until just combined.
In a small bowl, mix the walnuts, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the topping.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g